Ex-FIA steward slams Max Verstappen fan abuse as Lewis Hamilton accu… Read More

Ex-FIA steward slams Max Verstappen fan abuse as Lewis Hamilton accusation addressed

Former Formula 1 steward and ex-driver Johnny Herbert has spoken openly about the intense criticism he has faced from supporters of Max Verstappen, revealing that the online abuse directed at him became some of the worst he experienced during his career as a pundit.

Herbert, who previously worked as an FIA steward while also appearing in the media, became a frequent target of Verstappen supporters whenever he questioned or criticised the Red Bull driver. His comments attracted particular attention because he was involved in making decisions as a steward while simultaneously discussing Verstappen’s performances publicly.

The former F1 driver explained that the backlash was not limited to supporters from the Netherlands. According to Herbert, fans from several countries joined in the criticism, with some of the messages becoming extremely hostile.

The controversy intensified after the 2024 Mexican Grand Prix, when Verstappen and his father, Jos Verstappen, publicly responded to Herbert’s criticism. Jos questioned whether an FIA steward should be speaking publicly about drivers and races while holding such a position.

Although Herbert later left his role as an FIA steward, the criticism from Verstappen supporters continued. He said that the reaction remains one of the strongest examples of social-media abuse he has encountered during his broadcasting career.

A major part of the criticism surrounding Herbert has involved accusations that he favours Lewis Hamilton. Verstappen supporters have argued that his views toward the seven-time world champion demonstrate a preference for the British driver.

Herbert directly addressed those claims, explaining that his nationality naturally influences which British drivers he may support emotionally, but insisting that this does not prevent him from assessing Formula 1 objectively.

He pointed out that Hamilton is British, while Verstappen is Dutch, arguing that supporters on both sides can have national loyalties without automatically making professional opinions biased.

Herbert also highlighted the difference between supporting a driver and objectively assessing their performance. He made clear that while he can admire Verstappen’s ability, being impressed by the Dutchman’s talent does not mean he has to abandon his support for a British competitor.

The comments underline the continuing tension between national fan groups within Formula 1. Hamilton and Verstappen have developed enormous global followings, and debates surrounding the two drivers can often become highly emotional, particularly when former drivers, commentators or officials express opinions about either man.

Herbert’s experience illustrates how quickly those debates can move beyond sporting arguments and into personal attacks. His remarks also suggest that criticism from fans is not necessarily evidence that a commentator has acted unfairly.

With both Hamilton and Verstappen remaining major figures in Formula 1, their supporters are likely to continue scrutinising every opinion concerning them. Herbert’s latest comments serve as a reminder that passionate competition can coexist with respectful debate, while personal abuse should not become part of the conversation.

Ultimately, Herbert maintains that admiration for Hamilton does not prevent him from recognising Verstappen’s extraordinary ability. His message is that Formula 1 commentary should remain grounded in sporting judgment rather than being reduced to accusations of bias based solely on nationality.